Caribbean Association in China holds inaugural meeting

It’s not easy navigating the cultural twists and turns that are inevitably part of being a Caribbean national working or studying in China. Now, the Caribbean Association in China, working closely with the Embassies in Beijing, will help bridge that gap.
The Association, which had its inaugural meeting in Shanghai on April 1, 2007, has pledged to serve as a support network for the Caribbean community in China, foster a stronger understanding and appreciation of Caribbean culture, and strengthen Sino-Caribbean relations.
“I believe this is an historic occasion,” said president, Dr Nicoleen Johnson, “and the timing could not have been more appropriate, especially in light of the growing influx of Caribbean nationals in China, as well as Chinese in the region.”
In addition to Johnson, a trade consultant who has lived in Shanghai for about 10 years, other executive board members are:
first vice president Diana Walsh, a marketing and research consultant,
second vice president Earl Carr, a research marketing assistant for a consulting firm,
treasurer Jazmyne Watson, a law student with a background as a financial advisor,
and secretary Virginia Hunt, a kindergarten teacher.
“I’m pleased with the support that we have been getting from the Embassies in Beijing, from the Caribbean nationals that are here in Shanghai,” Johnson said. “I’ve seen a lot of interest shown, especially the strong commitment displayed by the founding members.”
Jamaica’s Ambassador to China, Wayne McCook, sees the Association as an extension of some of the roles members of the Caribbean community have played in China over the years.
“Members of the group have already been supportive in individual and ad hoc ways,” he said, “all play an important role in building people-to-people links and enhancing awareness of the Caribbean in China.”
Photo caption: The executive members of the Caribbean Association in China. Front row, from left: president Nicoleen Johnson and secretary Virginia Hunt (in yellow jacket). Second row: first vice president Diana Walsh (in white necklace) and Treasurer Jazmyne Watson. Back row: Earl Carr, second vice president.